The Unsung Hero of Your HVAC System: The Air Filter

One of the most overlooked yet essential components of your home’s heating and cooling system is the air filter. This simple device plays a crucial role in keeping your home clean and comfortable. Yet, despite its importance, many homeowners neglect the basic task of changing their air filters regularly. In fact, studies show that over 80% of American households don’t change their filters as often as they should, with 29% admitting they never change them at all!

If you’re not entirely familiar with how your HVAC system works, here’s a quick rundown. When your system kicks on, you’ll often hear the blowers start, pushing heated or cooled air through the vents. This is the part that most people understand, but what about the air that’s being replaced? The air that was circulating in your living room or office is drawn back to a central point, filtered, and then recirculated through the system.

This is where the air filter becomes critical. Filters trap dirt, dust, pollen (a big concern here in Alamance County, especially in spring!), pet dander, and even skin cells that would otherwise clog your system or be blown back into your living spaces. Without a clean filter, not only does your HVAC system suffer, but so does the quality of the air you breathe.

You might think, “With such a powerful HVAC system, how important can one little filter be?” Surprisingly, the answer is: very important. A clogged filter can significantly block airflow, causing the system to work harder than necessary, which could eventually lead to expensive repairs—up to $4,000 or more!

While that’s a worst-case scenario, here are some common problems that can arise from a dirty air filter:

• Poor temperature control: If air isn’t circulating properly, your system will struggle to maintain the desired temperature throughout your home.
• Lower air quality: Dust, dirt, and allergens will continuously recirculate, which is especially bad news for those with allergies.
• Higher energy bills: A clogged filter forces your system to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption—and higher utility bills.

Hopefully, this underscores the importance of taking your air filters seriously. So, how do you replace them, and how often should you do it?

How to Replace Your Air Filter

Changing your air filter is usually quite simple. First, locate the return vent in your home. It’s typically a large grate, and in most cases, you’ll find two tabs on the top that you can open to access the filter. Swing down the grate, remove the old filter, and replace it with a new one of the same size. If it’s your first time changing the filter, check the old one for its dimensions—common sizes are 20 x 20 x 1, but always verify before purchasing a replacement.

Be sure to pay attention to the arrows on the filter, which indicate airflow direction. The arrows should point inward, towards the HVAC unit.

How Often to Replace the Filter

How often you change the air filter depends on your household. If you have pets, you’ll likely need to replace it every month due to pet hair and dander. If your household is pet-free and includes three people or fewer, you can typically change the filter every 60-90 days, provided no one has allergies. If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to change the filter monthly—the cost is minimal, and it’s far better to be proactive.

Still unsure about how to replace your filter or where to find it? No problem! The team at Salmon’s Heating and Air is always here to help. We can guide you through the process, answer any questions, and even assist with more complex HVAC needs like system replacements. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’ve got you covered!